Friendships...

One of the things I have learned from reading the Purpose Driven Church by Rick Warren is the importance of building friendships within our church cannot be overemphasized enough. Relationships are what hold’s the church together. Friendships are the key to retaining members.
Research shows that the more friendships a person has in a congregation, the less likely he or she is to become inactive or leave. A survey was recently completed on 400 church dropouts – 75% of those surveyed responded “I didn’t feel anyone cared whether I was there or not.”

One of the many aspects that our church -your church - Gods church is that “If you come here, we are going to love you. No matter who you are or what you look like or what you’ve done, you’re going to be loved in this place.”

Families are based on relationships and those too have people who walk out on them as well - A church is a family of people all focused on the same mission - all doing life together and helping each other. Is this your idea of dedication? - is your heart behind doing for others - especially those in your family? So much rides on keeping everyone in the game...... be a person who loves regardless of what has happened - this is what Jesus teaches us. Foregiveness~ Acceptance~ Its more than just believing - its Belonging

I know many right now in my life and probably in yours - family and friends - people who are close to you who are saying - "I dont feel as if anyone cares - whether I am here or not". Nothing could be further from the truth.
John8:31
31-32Then Jesus turned to the Jews who had claimed to believe in him. "If you stick with this, living out what I tell you, you are my disciples for sure. Then you will experience for yourselves the truth, and the truth will free you."

Imagine being that person who could not see and Jesus comes - rubs some dirt and mud on your eyes and you are healed - able to see for the first time. Jesus can do that for you. Your eyes will be opened for the first time - This week loved ones - close your eyes and imagine what God could do in your life if you let Him. Imagine where He would take you..........